The beautiful Sera Ella falls, which has been a rich source for poetry in the past is situated in Dumbara jungle in Matale, Sri Lanka. The fall is 10 meters high and falls in two sections. The fall is formed by the waters of Thelgamu Oya. To form this waterfall, water from Kitul Canal, from the Kaudagammana Mountain and Hunumadala River join Puwakpitiya River, which later joins Thelgamu Oya.
About the destination
Thelgamu Oya creates several waterfalls in Dumbara valley and Sera Ella is the most magnificent one out of all. Situated in Pothatawela village, Illukkumbura in Matale, the waterfall is at its’ best most parts of the year. The waterfall gets its unique name because of a species of fish that inhabit the area, namely “Sera”. The best season to see the waterfall is when the fall is at its maximum, which is between November and March. It is believed that there is a hidden treasure behind the curtain of the waterfall. The beauty of Sera Ella is that there is a stunning cave behind the waterfall, and you can reach it even when the waterfall is at its full form when the waters keep gushing down fast. Some rocks are cut with steps to reach the fall. These tend to be slippery and one must be very careful when climbing them down. The base pool of the fall is deep and bathing in the waterfall is not advisable when the water level is high.
The hidden treasure of Sera Ella
There is a hidden treasure behind the curtain of the waterfall. The secret of Sera Ella is that there is a stunning cave behind the waterfall. You can reach it even when the waterfall is at its full form when the waters keep gushing down fast enough. Some rocks are cut with steps to reach the fall. These tend to be slippery so be very careful when you are climbing them. It is quite a good place for bathing and swimming also to spend a family vacation with your loved ones.
Reaching the destination
From Colombo
Take Ambepussa- Trincomalee highway (A6) and reach Dambulla town. Turn to Kandy road (A9) and reach Mandandawala junction, Matale. Take Matale-Illukkumbura-Paleegama-Girandurukotte road (B274) and turn left from Illukkumbura area. Travel along this road to reach your destination.
From Matale
Head north on Kandy Road (A9) until you reach Mandandawala junction and from there, follow the above directions.
